A proposal paper aims to establish a specific plan of action or solution to a problem. In your research paper, you have already identified an interesting problem or issue that merits your taking a stand. Translate your position into a thesis statement that proposes a solution; support your proposal with specific details and examples; and marshal your reasoning and appeals to persuade others to accept your proposal by modifying their thinking, changing their behavior, or using their influence.
Invention
Keep in mind as you brainstorm/draft:
You might begin by thinking about what your proposal paper might accomplish: Solve a problem. Change a behavior. Introduce new policy or procedure.
Given these typical aims, your audience could range from one that is completely hostile to your proposal to one that is understanding and ready to be persuaded to act. (It doesn't have to be the same audience that you wrote to for your research paper.)
Make sure that your proposed solution debatable but realistic, and be able to explain what exactly would be involved in implementing your solution, including time, money, and resources.
Consider which available means are going to be most effective for making your major claim or for supporting points. A paper could deploy definition, comparison, cause-and-effect analysis, process analysis, or narration (or a combination of these available means) in order to argue for your proposal. (For example: perhaps you want to propose a plan for healthier dining options in the residence hall. A paper might deploy cause and effect related to the so-called “Freshmen 15” and incorporate a short narrative involving an acquaintance of yours who is struggling to find healthy dining choices before proposing a specific course of action).
Expectations
A successful proposal paper will:
Revise and incorporate the information from the research paper to clearly explain the situation or problem that calls for your attention (exigence);
Establish an audience who is (or should be) invested in this situation or problem, and can do something about it;
Communicate your purpose (to offer a specific solution to the previously identified problem);
Marshal emotional appeals, logical reasoning, details and examples to enhance your points;
Employ a tone that expresses your opinion and advances your proposal without being confrontational;
Acknowledge and respond to opposing viewpoints/proposals; and
Supply a clear, identifiable course of action.
Length: 8-10 pages (double-spaced)
Further Note: For extra credit, any student may prepare a five-to-ten-minute slide presentation instead of a written proposal, in close consultation with the instructor. This presentation will be performed for the class on the paper deadline.
Proposal Argument
Assignment 5: Proposal
Purpose
A proposal paper aims to establish a specific plan of action or solution to a problem. In your research paper, you have already identified an interesting problem or issue that merits your taking a stand. Translate your position into a thesis statement that proposes a solution; support your proposal with specific details and examples; and marshal your reasoning and appeals to persuade others to accept your proposal by modifying their thinking, changing their behavior, or using their influence.
Invention
Keep in mind as you brainstorm/draft:Expectations
A successful proposal paper will:Length: 8-10 pages (double-spaced)
Further Note: For extra credit, any student may prepare a five-to-ten-minute slide presentation instead of a written proposal, in close consultation with the instructor. This presentation will be performed for the class on the paper deadline.
Rough Draft Due: November 14, 2011
Final Assignment Portfolio Due: November 18, 2011